Crystal inks MOA with Fincantieri for two all-suite cruise ships

The first would be delivered in spring 2028 with a date for the second to be advised. The order includes an option for a third ship to come in 2032.

The value wasn't specified but Fincantieri called it 'important,' between €1b and €2b.

The news breaks two years after A&K Travel Group acquired Crystal in June 2022.

Signaled in July 2023

With this, the company made good on its word of a year ago about working toward a newbuild MOA. At the time, CEO Cristina Levis signaled the plan to build four ships in six years, including two expedition vessels.

'These new ships will receive the same level of attention I have reserved for my own house,' Cristina Levis said

'Our aim is to continue setting a new standard in cruising, offering our guests an unmatched level of service and sophistication,' Levis said Thursday. 'These new ships will receive the same level of attention I have reserved for my own house.'

The interiors will feature 'the most precious marbles, Italian fabrics and natural materials, offering a level of research and sophistication typically reserved for high-end private residential properties.'

Wrap-around promenade

The ships will have a wrap-around promenade, similar to those on Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity that are beloved by Crystal loyalists. Wellness and relaxation will be at the heart of the design, with a comprehensive spa and fitness center.

Dining options will showcase a variety of world-class cuisines including Umi Uma, the only Nobu at sea, as well as recently announced Beefbar. Additionally, Crystal will continue its entertainment offering along with a Casino de Monte-Carlo in a recently announced exclusive partnership with Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer.

Family travelers can expect a dedicated space for children.

Accommodations

All-suite accommodations with private verandas include a popular single occupancy category with veranda.

Crystal also promised one of the highest crew-to-passenger ratios in this segment, ensuring personalized service and attention to detail.

Three design firms

Architectural firms Studio Ibsen led by Adriana Granato and Studio Gem headed by Giacomo and Lorenzo Mortola will lead the design efforts, along with a third international design firm to be appointed.

40 years of collaboration, starting with Sitmar

'This order is another milestone in the 40 years of productive collaboration between Fincantieri and my family that started with Sitmar Cruises, continued with Silversea and now is flourishing again with Crystal,' said Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, executive chairman of A&K Travel Group.

A 'collaboration between Fincantieri and my family that started with Sitmar Cruises, continued with Silversea and now is flourishing again with Crystal,' said Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, pictured at a past Silversea event at Fincantieri's Ancona yard

Fincantieri CEO Pierroberto Folgiero said the deal highlights cruising's 'robust recovery' and 'reaffirms Fincantieri’s leadership, thanks to the operational excellence of our shipyards and the execution quality of our world-class supply chain.'

He added Fincantieri is 'thrilled to partner with Crystal in our pursuit of innovation and excellence, under the guidance of a shipowner who has always been close to our group.'